How Meditation Can Turn You into a Genius

Reaping the Benefits of an age-old tradition:

- By Nipunika Dahanayaka

Meditation originally began as a spiritual practice closely intertwined with ancient cultural and religious traditions, which has now evolved into a global phenomenon for its potential mental and physical health benefits.

As scientific research delves deeper into its effects, both the advantages and negative aspects are coming to light.

Let's explore the history of meditation, various alternative practices, their benefits and the possible adverse effects linked with them and the possible solutions to the problems.

A Brief History Of Meditation

Meditation's origin traces back thousands of years, with early practices documented in ancient civilisations such as Egypt, China and India.

In India, meditation was integral to Hindu traditions, later influencing Jainism and Buddhism. Buddhist meditation practices, including Zen and Vipassana, emphasised mindfulness and concentration. As these philosophies spread across Asia, diverse meditation techniques emerged, adapting to each country's unique cultural and spiritual traditions.

As I spoke to a prominent monk in Mount Lavinia, he started with a value-based message, a moral statement which said, "Sanwara Kala Hitha Salasai yahapatha", meaning, "A mind cultivated through discipline fosters peace and well-being".

According to him "mindfulness" or Sati in Pali is a central practice for achieving inner peace, wisdom and liberation". As Lord Buddha says, He continued, "In everyday life, being fully aware of one's thoughts, actions, and surroundings with clarity and presence can be used as a kind of meditation where you practice the "taming of your mind." here are some key teachings of Lord Buddha:

1. Mindfulness:

In daily activities, be mindful that when you walk, you're walking, When you stand, you're standing and when you're lying down that you know you're lying down.

In other words, be absolutely present with yourself.

2. Guarding our minds: